Blake Blue Note www.blakeptsa.org February 2011

Please share this issue with your spouse and students Principal’s Corner By Christopher Berry From the President Message from your PTSA President Welcome back for the second half of the year, and a new I am writing this message prior to February 2, so I don’t semester. While January signals the beginning of the know if Punxsutawney Phil is going to see his shadow, but I calendar year, the school year in a high school actually think most of us are looking forward to a quick end to begins again around the first of February. For many winter. students, turning that page means the opportunity to

take a fresh look at class in which they are continuing, or As you get through the balance of winter, don’t forget that start new study habits that are better than old ones. winter weather is more tolerable when you are toasty and There is nothing better, in many cases, than a blank page warm and wrapped up with a good book to read. Come to in which to make a new start. As I told students on our our Used Book and Media Sale during Feb. 11-13 and 18-21. televised news on the first day, every student currently This sale is for all of you bibliophiles and video lovers. There has a 4.0 GPA. Every day represents the opportunity to will be plenty of good deals for all, and Blake staff will get a keep that 4.0. Students should not view a new semester 10% discount. The sale will be in the Cloverly Shopping simply as a directive to focus on fulfilling minimum Center. The Kramer Family (Rona and Ben) has graciously requirements with the least possible effort. Instead, provided us with the use of their retail space, once more. students should always be asking themselves how they Come to the sale. B lake families read! can maximize their results with one purpose in mind –

The mentor-tutoring program , run by Dr. Omari Daniel and creating as many opportunities as possible at the high

Mr. Robert Loftus, and supported by the PTSA, is going well, school finish line. It’s a somewhat simple premise, but reported our program liaison, Jonathan Arias. They are work with your student daily to ask the questions, “What considering lengthening the program to an entire semester. else can I do?” “Can that C be pushed to a B?” “Am I We don’t want students only to work hard to become REALLY ready to take that quiz or test?” eligible (to participate in sports), we want students to really succeed , and it takes time. In the next few weeks, students in grade 9 through 11

will register for their courses for the next school year. Members of the school community, led by the PTSA, Decisions may be difficult as so many of our students are prepared dinner for 200 homeless men after receiving an eager to take advantage of the variety of interesting and Continued on page 2 challenging courses we provide. The most important advice I can offer is to take the most rigorous and I NSIDE T HIS I S S U E balanced schedule that the student, parent and

counselor believe you can take. Students need to be 5 Counseling Department challenged to reach beyond what even they see and 6 College & Career Center their own potential. Often students opt for on-level classes because they see it as a safer opportunity to get 7 Signature News a higher grade and grade point average. This needs to be questioned and discussed by both school-based adults 8 SGA News & School Calendar and parents, particularly if the student has the potential Continued on Page 3

Newsletter 1

Message from your PTSA President - continued from page 1 teachers is even more important than ever, as teachers are urgent request for the Montgomery Coalition for the asked to do more with less. The Blake PTSA sponsors a Homeless (MCCH) . Many Blake parents and students silent auction during the Arts & Humanities Fair. Last year donated money for food, desserts, and families helped we added a very successful online auction. This year we prepare and serve food at the shelter on Gude Drive. Carla will have both again; the online auction in Mid-April Wallace and Judith Porzel helped with coordination, as did followed by the silent auction on May 6. The auctions are David Young. We had lots of help for such short notice. our biggest fundraisers of the year, and they benefit Thank you to families who responded to the call. Many of Blake, directly. Blake is in need of technology upgrades , the volunteers want to make helping at the shelter a including television studio equipment and equipment for regular service. If you are interested please contact Carla ( the Media Center, and other programs. The front office [email protected] ) or Judith ([email protected] ). also needs an upgrade. You may send in directed funds, We learned that MCPS has launched an Online Parent and/or help Blake by donating to the auction, bidding at Guide to Special Education . Please see information on the auctions, or volunteering your time. We are also in page 5 in this BBN. need of co-chairs for the auctions. If you have an interest

we need your skills. To help coordinate the auctions or The After Prom Committee is in full swing planning the After Prom. The Prom and After Prom are May 13 and 14 volunteer in some other way, contact me at (Friday night and Saturday morning). Part of our [email protected] . fundraising is through family Dine-Ins/Dine-outs . Please PTSA membership i s currently at 484, but last year we had support them. If you want to be a part of the After Prom well over 600 people. The more members we have, the committee contact Margie McNabb at more clout Blake will have within the county, the more [email protected] . money we have a chance to raise, and the more The PTSA is planning a used Prom Dress sale , possibly with opportunities we will have to support Blake students. If Sherwood High School. More information will be you have not joined yet, please do so today. forthcoming. The Prom Dress sale chairperson is Isabel Bailey, [email protected] . Copies of the Blake Directory are on sale now for $10.

Copies will be available at the Parent meetings, and at

There will be a second student PTSA meeting during lunch, other times. If you are interested in buying a directory this in the spring. An announcement will be made on Eubie TV, year 2010-2011, please contact me at eubiemail, and edline. Encourage your students to come. [email protected] . But remember, the cost of a The SGA is sponsoring “ Dance for a Chance” to promote single membership is only $20.00, and it includes a free the Pennies for Patients drive. Please support the drive. directory . Encourage your Blake student(s) to attend the dance and other activities. Blake’s African American Symposium, sponsored by the Signature Program for Arts and Humanities, will take International Night will be held on Friday evening, March place on the morning of February 23 rd . Many outside artist

4. Sample and savor the many flavors of international and speakers will be at Blake that day, sharing their art, cuisine and the wonderful and diverse student and history. This is a wonderful experience for the student entertainment. The International Club is sponsored by Mr. body. Gary Jean-Charles. Congratulations to the Instrumental Music Department on NEC PTSA and Music Boosters presidents came together your successful trip to New Orleans to perform in the to discuss how to encourage students—especially middle Sugar Bowl. schools students—and their administrators and counselors to better promote music education . Interested parents are If you can find the time, come out to the next PTSA meeting. Support the sports teams and come to the many advocating for music not to be overlooked during student advising as children transition through middle school in evening performances. Don’t forget to get your tickets to preparation for high school. Let’s keep music arts strong! “Hairspray”, Blake’s spring musical this year. And once the chill of winter has subsided, have a Happy Spring! There is a hiring freeze in MCPS . As schools lose teachers to attrition, permanent teachers can only be replaced with long-term substitutes . Mr. Berry has said that we, as a school community, must be patient as we face a number of challenges this year due to budget cuts. Supporting

Newsletter 2

Blake Seniors Corinne Konoza and Joyce Bartlett Receive Principal’s Corner continued from page 1 Posse Scholarships to do more, even if it represents a stretch. We are short - Corinne Konoza and Joyce Bartlett, two Blake High School changing the A/B student in an on-level class who is seniors, are among more than 60 students in the comfortable and choosing not to try the risk of an Washington area who will share more than $8 million this honors or Advanced Placement level class. Most year in four-year full tuition leadership scholarships funded teenagers are risk-takers; the challenge is to encourage by The Posse Foundation. them to be appropriate academic risk-takers, encourage

them to find support when they need to learn to work Most candidates are from urban high schools that may be through struggle, and encourage them to feel a real overlooked by the traditional college selection process. sense of accomplishment for having truly mastered These independent and self-driven students, who are chosen something that is complex and difficult. This is a game based on exceptional academics and leadership potential, plan for success. The grade of B in an honors or AP are nominated by their local school and then go through a course is weighted the same as an A in an on-level rigorous application process that includes interviewing and course in the weighted GPA. Colleges and universities team-building sessions. Once in the program, students are look at both weighted and un-weighted GPA’s and look grouped with ten other Posse scholarship winners who meet more favorably upon students with a more rigorous to provide support for each other, both before they begin course load. college and after they enroll.

Konoza plans to attend Sewanee: The University of the South One by-product of encouraging students to take more in Tennessee and Bartlett plans to attend Grinnell College in challenging courses can be student overload. It is critical Iowa. They received their Posse Scholarships at an awards to determine which honors/AP courses and how many ceremony held January 5 at the Dorothy Betts Marvin are reasonable for students to take. The workload in an Theatre at George Washington University. honors course is greater and harder than on-level For more information about the Posse scholarships, contact courses. Likewise, the step up from an honors course to May Naldo at [email protected] , or 202-347-7071. an AP course is another degree of difficult that some students find surprising. Honors and AP courses are a To contact Blake’s Career Information Coordinator Katherine different level of difficulty. Many students are highly Moore: [email protected] . successful at taking mostly honors courses. Many really challenge themselves and succeed at taking one or two, and then progress to others. The term “honors program” is really a fallacy in high school, in that taking honors or AP courses is not a sequential, all-or-nothing process for which a student is selected. All honors and AP level courses can be taken in an “a la carte” approach. Montgomery County Safety & Health Committee will meet Students should take advanced courses in the content January 31, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Carver Building, 850 areas in which they have a strength or a strong interest Hungerford Drive, in Rockville). The evening’s speaker is in, or for which they have been recommended. The Nadji Kirby, coordinator for the Safe Routes To School balance is an important part of the student success. Program (with Montgomery County’s Department of There needs to be discussion with students, parents, and Transportation). The County's Safe Routes to School counselors to plan for a rigorous but realistic course Program is an effort to use a variety of education, load. We have developed supports for students at all engineering, and enforcement strategies that help make levels, but the month of February is the time to routes safer for children to walk and bicycle to school. The reprogram that academic GPS and determine the route program involves the whole community; parents, children, for the coming year. neighborhood groups, schools, law enforcement officers, community leaders, and transportation and public health Let me offer a final few thoughts from the school professionals to help identify issues and work together on perspective on the registration process. Student course solutions. selection is important as it determines staffing for the next school year. I probably don’t need to remind you that we live in extraordinary economic times, and that Continued on Page 4

Newsletter 3

Principal’s Corner continued from page 3 MCPS is having to make choices among bad options unlike Let me close by thanking all of the parent volunteers many years in the past. While fiscal restraint is necessary, it who make our school a true community of students, will have an impact on the classrooms at Blake High School. staff, and parents. Whether it is selling pizza, manning a Schools are given a set number of teaching positions based concession stand, chaperoning a field trip, serving as a on student populations for the next school year. We hire leader of a parent group, or writing a check for a teachers and assign classes based on the courses that fundraiser, Blake works because we all pull in the same students select. When students change their mind later, it directions. Your efforts do not go unnoticed by our can have a negative domino impact on class size. We build students and staff. Thank you for the important and the master schedule with a distinct student-centered focus. simple ways that you help our staff feel appreciated Students need to make second and third choices because we and, on a personal level, for taking the time to chat and can only offer classes when enough students are present to reflect with me at so many student events. Please take run the course. Sometimes we need to make hard choices the time to have a conversation with me about what’s when small numbers of students choose certain classes. We on you mind when our paths cross. do not have the staffing to support every course every student would like to take. Priority is given to team-taught  and inclusion classes which are capped at smaller classes to Blake Forensics Scores Big! ensure the best learning environment for students who need support. In addition, Advanced Placement and signature The Blake Forensics Team under the leadership of arts-related classes are a priority. We make a concerted Sponsor Michael D’Anna took Second Place in the First effort to run all of these courses that we can to maintain a County Qualifying Meet in November. More than 20 breadth and depth of creative and academically challenging schools competed. classes in our schedule for all of our students. For Blake, First Place Awards were taken by Emily Eaglin I’ve touched on the budget issue, but allow me to highlight a in Informative Speech, Alexandra Reeves in Prose few more items related to this process. It is not hyperbole to Interpretive Reading (reading My Summer Trip ), and suggest that the fiscal choices our school system faces are Jourdan Lewanda and Calvin Perry in Ensemble Acting like none we’ve seen in a generation. The proposals that are for their presentation of “ The Gentleman Caller’s Scene” currently being suggested and discussed are jaw-dropping in from Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie. many cases, especially by Montgomery County standards. I Other students placing in the meet included Ashley would encourage you to do a couple of things as this Peters in Dramatic Interpretation, Jourdan Lewanda in timeline progresses into spring. First, please make a Poetry and Prose Interpretation, Richard Muhammed in concerted effort to understand the complex nature of the Children’s Literature, Angela Mix in Poetry, Mark budget process and factual news regarding proposals. The Fearson in Informative Speech, and Alexandra Reeves rumor mill is rife during these times, and it’s far more and Grace Plihal in Readers Theatre. productive to deal in facts, rather than the opposite. I will attempt to communicate frequently with the community-at- large about proposals that will impact the quality of the education at Blake. Please follow Eubie Mail, the Blake school website, and the Blake PTSA website, as well as your local news sources, for breaking information. Second, please allow your voice to be heard. This request is echoed time and again, but the stakes are higher than I can recall in a 25- Forensics is a tremendous activity for students to year career in education. We do provide world-class develop their spoken presentation skills in a friendly yet education in Montgomery County. It is why people choose to competitive atmosphere. The team’s next meet is live here versus other location. But it does come at a price January 29 and students may join the team for that meet and it is not a given. There are limits to this public service, or come on board for the February 26 Meet. especially in tight fiscal times, but please consider what the See Mr. D’Anna for information or check out the Blake true long-term cost that differing cuts will bring. Stage Company Website at www.blakestagecompany.org

Newsletter 4

Counseling Department News tuition payment to MCPS Student eLearning, 2096 Gaither Rd, Suite 101, Rockville, MD 20850 or by fax:

Registration materials for the 2011-2012 school year will be 301-670-8235 ) distributed to students through homerooms on Feb. 2. Students also will receive their report cards and a copy of MVS Online courses being offered this summer their transcripts. Parents should talk with their children MCPS has approved several AP courses that students can about their course selections, review their credits using the take during the school year or summer. For more transcript and report card, and sign off on their choices for information on which courses are approved courses or next year. Course Registration Cards are due to the how to register, go to: Counseling Office on Feb. 8 . Each counselor will begin http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/o meeting with students through English classes starting Feb. nlinelearning/mvs.shtm 14 and continuing through March 1. If you have any questions, please contact the following: Seniors will receive their report card and a copy of their Supervisor of Online Learning: transcript in Homeroom on Feb. 2 . Parents of seniors should [email protected] review report cards and transcripts with their child. General program information: There will be a family meeting to discuss the Montgomery [email protected] or call 301-279-3466 Scholars Program on Feb. 3 at 7:00 p.m. in the Amphitheater. Students currently in grades 10 and 11 and MCPS Launches Online Parent Guide to Special who are interested in taking college classes through Education next school year should attend this http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/s meeting. Program requirements and application procedures pecialed/parents/ will be presented. A new parent-focused website is now online to assist

families of students who require special education Advanced Placement exam registration will begin on March services and families of students who are in the 1. Ms. Beth Thomas (Assistant Principal) and Mr. Kim beginning stages of the special education process. Tolbert (Counselor) will be meeting with students to discuss The multimedia guide is designed to make it easy for the registration process. parents to get answers to a broad range of questions

about special education services or to find which MCPS Registration for Online summer courses ! staff members can assist them.

The site features numerous videos highlighting the great Please check the following link to confirm when registration staff and services that MCPS provides to special is open: education students. It also includes a feedback form for http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/onlin parents to fill out to make suggestions on how we can elearning/enroll.shtm improve the website.

MCPS Online courses being offered this summer: MCPS Comprehensive Health and Wellness (.5 credit, three Blake Calendar, February and March 2011 week course, $310) February MCPS Personal Finance (.5 credit, three week course, $310) Feb 1 - Lincoln U. - On the spot Admissions (Blake) th MCPS Foundations of Technology (1.0 credit, six week Feb. 3 - 9 grade meeting course, $620) Feb. 10 - Dine-out at Mama Lucia' s - Olney Feb. 15 - Course registration (Blake)

Feb. 15 - PTSA Meeting Students interested in taking one or more of these online Feb 18 - Dance for a Chance – Students courses will need to do the following: Feb 24 - Mr. Blake • Work with their school counselor to select a course(s). March • Complete and print the online registration form, found Mar, 14 – Athletic Awards at: Mar, 15 - PTSA Meeting http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/o Mar, 17 – Instrumental Music Concert th nlinelearning/enroll.shtm. Mar, 24 - 12 grade parent meeting (mandatory) Mar, 25 - Swing Night • Return the printed form, with necessary signatures and

Newsletter 5

COLLEGE & CAREER CENTER NEWS: Saturday School Program Enrolls Students Throughout the Year! All seniors should complete the FAFSA to be considered for Your child can get support in core academic subjects in a small federal or state student aid beginning January 1. Be sure to group setting on Saturday mornings! The Saturday School, a submit before 3/1 to be considered for Maryland state aid! tutoring and mentoring program that enhances the academic Some colleges request that the FAFSA be submitted before performance and achievement of Montgomery County students March 1, so be aware of your colleges' financial aid deadlines. in grades 1 through 12 and prepares them for the challenges of

college and career, is in its 25th year of operation. This program COLLEGE GOAL SUNDAY - February 13, 2:00-4:00 p.m. (snow helps children reach their potential through individualized date: Feb. 20). If you missed Blake’s Financial Aid Workshop, assistance with schoolwork, study skills, and test-taking skills. here's an opportunity to get hands-on help with the FAFSA in a computer lab setting. This annual event is held at the Parents may register their children any time during the year by Montgomery College Takoma Park campus in Silver Spring. going to one of the centers listed below on any Saturday Financial aid volunteers from area colleges volunteer their time morning that the Saturday School is in session. Parents must to individually help families complete the Free Application for complete a registration form (including student ID number), pay Federal Student Aid. Bring your 2008 or 2009 tax returns or W- a one-time $50 registration fee (which is the only fee for the 2 forms, proof of residency (alien registration number) and your program), and provide a copy of their child’s most recent report FAFSA PIN number for assistance ( www.pin.ed.gov ). card. A payment plan is available to families who may have difficulty paying the registration fee. Information about the MONTGOMERY COLLEGE ACCUPLACER TEST will be offered at payment plan option is available thought the Center Director at Blake Friday, March 4, 7:30-10 a.m. (MCPS half day). Seniors each Saturday School site. Registration forms are available in the wishing to apply to MC should pick up a paper application from main office of all cluster schools and online at the Career Center (or print out the application form posted on www.saturdayschool.org . www.montgomerycollege.edu & complete by hand). Bring the completed application to Mrs. Moore for a $25 application fee On Saturday mornings, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., certified waiver prior to Feb. 15. teachers and volunteer high school tutors work with students in the areas of reading, language arts, and math and teach Students who do this will be scheduled to take the MC successful learning/studying strategies. Secondary students also placement test (Accuplacer) on March 4 in one of the Blake have access to computer labs to assist them in researching computer labs (TBA). If a student has already mailed their MC information for assignments and learning valuable technology application to the admissions office, they will not be able to skills. take advantage of the fee waiver, but may register to take the The Saturday School is open to all students who desire to Accuplacer at Blake. See Mrs. Moore to sign up for the test improve or enhance their academic growth and achievement. (only 60 seats are available on March 4). Centers are located in 12 high schools throughout the County. Students can enroll at any of the 12 centers; however, students HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES RECRUITING LOCALLY typically enroll at the center that is in their home school cluster. Date and location for remaining HBCUs that are sponsoring on- Once enrolled, students must meet high academic and the-spot evening admission/scholarship events in Montgomery behavioral expectations, including regular attendance. They are County are: required to share quarterly report cards with 2/1/11 Lincoln University (PA) at Blake -2/8 rain date tutors, who use the information to plan tutoring activities and 2/10/11 Coppin State University at Rockville H.S. monitor student progress. 2/16/11 UNCF/NAACP/MCPS College Fair at Blair H.S. 3/17/11 Bowie State University at J.F. Kennedy H.S. The Saturday School also offers parent workshops for parents of students enrolled in the Saturday School. The next workshop will Contact your Counselor or Career Center Coordinator for more be held at each of our 12 locations on February 5; the topic is information (301-879-1324). The high school hosting the event Can We Talk? Speaking Up for Your Children to Help Them will want to know who to expect from Blake H.S. Typically, Succeed. these evening events begin at 6:00 p.m. with a presentation If you have questions about the program, please call the from the admissions representative, followed by individual Saturday School’s main office at 301-320-6545. interviews (first come/first served). Students must bring a completed application, transcript and test scores in hand and SATURDAY SCHOOL CENTERS be ready to interview with the admissions representative. Montgomery Blair High School Northwest High School Application fees are waived for participants. Albert Einstein High School Gaithersburg High School Rockville High School John F. Kennedy High School Sherwood High School Col. Zadok Magruder High School Spring Brook High School

Newsletter 6

Signature New s BLAKE’S AFTER-PROM CELEBRATION The Arts and Humanities Signature Program at Blake High Saturday, May 14, 12:30 a.m.-5:00 a.m. School continues to be the engine that drives our school. Location: Dave & Buster’s, White Flint Mall Vital programs in the arts and humanities have been The After-Prom Committee will meet February 28, at highlighting school activities all year. The Band Program has 7:00 p.m. in the Career Center. Please mark your been as active as ever with a trip to the January 4 Sugar Bowl calendar and come help us plan the 2011 After Prom at in New Orleans, a visit by the New York Voices in December, Dave & Buster’s and find out how YOU can volunteer. If two concerts and numerous parades. Band directors Brian you are not available that night, please contact Margie Damron and Jon Eising continue to lead our energetic McNabb [email protected] to help in any way – program. even from your phone or home! This event is sponsored by the PTSA and totally funded by parents The Dance Program held its annual recital on January 12 and and local businesses. No money comes from the school entertained the community with more than 200 students or prom ticket sales. who showed their talents in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and hip hop. Teachers Danielle D’Anna, Donna Iriarte, and Nicole Hopkins did a fine job preparing their students.

Choral Arts has seen the addition to our staff of Sandra Zinkievich who has teamed with veteran Shirley Letcher to Blake High School USED BOOK and MEDIA SALE present another great winter concert in December. Feb. 11-13 and 18-21 Blake High School will hold its 4th annual Used Book and Stop by the school Art Gallery to see the many exhibits that Media Sale on February 11-13 and 18-21, appear every month under the leadership of our fine arts 2011. Donations of the following are gratefully teachers: John Overman, Lousie Runion, Katya Jimenez, accepted: Nancy McIntosh, and Sarah Hartenstine. New or gently used books (hardcover and paperback) — The Eubie news team led by Susan Knott, Sarah Hartenstine, fiction, nonfiction, mystery, science fiction, romance, and Barbara Padnos continues to provide wonderful daily young adult, children’s, cookbooks, history, politics, news programs and announces on a new studio set health, test prep, foreign language, music scores, other designed, built and painted by John Ovington, Nick Piegari, Other media—CDs, DVDs, books on tape, comics Stay and Robbie Lodge. tuned to Eubie Mail and the PTSA website for a book-

THE BLAKE BEAT continues to show itself as one of the great delivery day at the store. We’ll even unload your items secondary newspapers in the nation under the sponsorship from your car. Of course, you can also bring donations to of Kevin Keegan and the leadership of his student editors. the Blake High School main office and leave them in a box. The Blake Stage Company under the direction of Mr. D’Anna, Interested in helping out on sale days? To volunteer, and continues to draw national attention in receiving an for more information, please contact Orit Chicherio at invitation to represent the United State at the 2012 301-384-3324 or [email protected] . Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland. The Stage Company was recommended by numerous college department heads for theatre excellence to the American HS Theatre Festival at the Fringe. The Acting Company will present scenes from Arthur Miller’s THE CRUCIBLE on February 3 and 4 at 7:00 p.m. in the Black Box Theater (where a few specialized scenes will be presented before THE CRUCIBLE). International Night, March 4

The Forensics Team took three First Place Awards in the First Mark your calendars for International Night on Friday Semester in the Montgomery County Forensics League’s first March 4. We’ll start in the cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. and meet and finished in Second Place out of 20 schools. The then move to the auditorium for the performances. The Team hopes to compete for the Championship against cost is $7.00 per adult and $3.00 for children. perennial champion Walter Johnson in the Second Semester.

Newsletter 7

Student Government Association News a monetary donation, we will exceed our goal!!! If our Pennies for Patients goal is met…the SGA is in the works of having our Administration, Mr. Berry, Mr. Du Boyce, Ms. Morales, Mr. This is Blake High School’s 7 th year participating in the annual Tyrell and Ms. Thomas do something outrageous! High School Challenge program called “Pennies for Patients” for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Starting on P4P Calendar: Tuesday , Feb. 1 and continuing until Feb. 25, Blake will be Jan. 25: Pennies for Patients Assembly at 12 p.m. collecting money through collection boxes in English Classes, Jan. 31 – Feb. 4: Spirit Week ($1.00 each day to dinner fundraisers, and sponsored events, all of which will participate) raise proceeds which will go directly to the cause. Donate Feb. 1: Pennies for Patients fundraising begins and LEDO’s directly online at http://nca.sy.llsevent.org/Blake . Dine Out at the Colesville Location Feb. 8 : CHEEBURGER Dine Out at the Olney Location 5-8 New Events to the P4P Program: p.m. (Bring Flyer or ask waiter) SPIRIT WEEK will take place Jan. 31 through Feb. 4. Each Feb. 14 – 25: Penny Wars (Grade Level Competition) morning students must donate $1.00 if they are Feb. 15: CALIFORNIA TORTILLA at the Olney Location (not participating in dressing up for spirit week . Students can confirmed as of Jan. 19; check your e-mail and report to the main office lobby or student parking entrance www.blakesga.net for more info). for a sticker before reporting to 1 st period. Feb. 16: Bengal Ball Tournament at 6 pm in the main gym, Monday, Jan. 31 – PJ Day team check in at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1 – Team Day Feb. 18 : Pennies for Patients T-shirt Competition at lunch Wednesday, Feb. 2 – Nerd Day and Winter Dance at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3 – GQ Day Feb. 24: Mr. Blake at 7 p.m. in the Auditorium Friday, Feb. 4 – Celebrity Day Feb. 25: Pennies for Patients fundraising ends

PENNY WARS! This is a grade level competition being held in the last two weeks of February. There will be four large water jugs under the spiral staircase. The goal is to accumulate the most number of Pennies, but beware if Register your Giant and Safeway Bonus cards for Octobersomeone puts14 Talk silver on coins, Underage dollars or Alcohol checks in Abuse your class’s Blake High School jug it will minus that number of Pennies. Example: If an 11 th Teens and parents are encouragedth to attend a frankth grader put 10 pennies in the 11 grade jug, but a 9 grader To join the A+Giant program all you have to do is: presentation on underageth alcohol abuse trends in placed a dime in the 11 grade jug, it would delete those 10 Log on to www.giantfood.com/aplus to register on line Montgomery County, and what they can do to keep their pennies. We will explain this at the assembly and on the Or friends and themselves out of harm's way if a situation morning announcements as well. See your class officer, SGA Dial 1-877-275-2758 to register your card over the gets out of control unexpectedly. phone officer, or Ms. Gelb if you have questions. Shelia DeRiso, RN, BSN, MS, CEN, CCRN gives a graphic Blake High School ID# 03625 explanationOther wonderful of what events happens to support to a teen are whoBengal comes Ball to the EmergencyTournament Room on Feb. with 16. alcohol Teams poisoning, must have using their actual entries To join the Safeway card rewards program through hospitalforms and equipment, payment byhumor Feb. and4. Other respect. events to look forward eScrip: to are the Winter Dance on Friday, Feb. 18 and Mr. Blake on Log on to OfficerThursday, William Feb. 24,Morrison when thefrom contestants the MCPD goAlcohol around Init aiativest https://secure.escrip.com/jsp/supporter/registration/s Unitintermission will discuss for yourthe preventable donations. tragediesSpecially designehis teamd Pennies tep1.jsp respondsfor Patients to t-shirtsthat result will frombe on adolescents sale for $15.00, not realiz and branding how new Blake High School ID# 6520522 athis bad year decision we will can have go wronga T-Shirt with Design a variety Competition of irreversible. Show tragicoff your consequences. personalized shirt at lunch near the spiral staircase Ask family members and friends to help Blake High School by designating their cards! Comeon Friday to the 2/18, Magruder and the Highwinner School and Auditorium,will receive a 5930 prize! Muncaster Mill Road in Rockville, on Thursday, October 14 atAnd 7:30 we p.m. hope Bring that athe friend Blake and HS bring community your question will partics! Foripate in morehelping information, us to reach contact our goal Patty of $12,000. Winters, If Magruder every student HS at PTSA,Blake donatesat [email protected] just $7.00 by attending, or a 301-519-7537 P4P event or givingor 240 -421 -7166 .

Newsletter 8

QuickNotes -- How to Receive MCPS Emergency Montgomery County Board of Education Search for a New Information Superintendent

Receive emergency announcements, as well as other Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent of schools, has announced his school news and information via e-mail through MCPS retirement effective June 30, 2011. As a result, the Montgomery County Board of Education is conducting a search for a new QuickNotes. Sign up at www.mcpsquicknotes.org . superintendent of schools. We are working with the executive search Information is available in six languages. firm of Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA) to identify the best possible candidate for the position. Alert MCPS provides information about major changes in school system operations via text messages delivered to It is critically important that our consultants develop a thorough devices you register, such as cell phones, smart phones, understanding of the Montgomery County Public Schools in order to and pagers. Signing up for Alert MCPS is free, but check recruit the strongest and most qualified superintendent candidates with your wireless provider about charges associated for us to consider. Public forums will be conducted by consultants with text messages. Messages are provided in English from HYA to gather community input. These public forums will be held as follows, with translation/interpretation services available as and Spanish. Parents and staff can also sign up to receive noted: messages for specific MCPS schools. This service would Monday, January 31, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. be used for situations that affect one or a small number Location: Northwest High School, 13501 Richter Farm Road, of schools, such as a power outage. Sign up at Germantown (map) http://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov/ . Translation/interpretation available in: Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese A Twitter account allows you to follow MCPS updates, Location: White Oak Middle School, 12201 New Hampshire Avenue, including emergency messages, on your computer, cell Silver Spring phone, or mobile device. Go to http://twitter.com/mcps Translation/interpretation available in: Spanish to follow MCPS or to create an account. Tuesday, February 1, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. Location: Bethesda Elementary School, 7600 Arlington Road,

Bethesda (Accessible from Bethesda Metro Station) MCPS Website Changes in school operations due to Translation/interpretation available in Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and weather conditions or other emergencies are posted on Vietnamese. the MCPS website at www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org . Location: Montgomery Village Middle School, 19300 Watkins Mill Messages are posted in English and Spanish. Road, Montgomery Village Translation/interpretation available in Recorded Information Line—call 301-279-3673 to hear a Spanish . recorded message in English and Spanish about changes Wednesday, February 2, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. in school operations. Location: Wheaton High School, 12601 Dalewood Drive, Silver Spring Translation/ interpretation available in Spanish. MCPS TV Emergency messages, news about MCPS, Location: Carver Educational Services Center, 850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville Translation/interpretation available in Spanish, French, coverage of Board of Education meetings, and more, are Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. provided on Comcast Cable Ch. 34, Verizon Ch. 36, and RCN Ch. 89. For more info, visit www.mcpstv.org . If child care or translation/interpretation services will be required, TV and Radio: Tune in to local TV and radio stations for please contact the Board of Education office at 301-279-3617 by news about changes in school operations due to weather January 24. For sign language interpretation, please call 301-517- 5539 by January 24. conditions or other emergencies. The Montgomery County Board of Education has a new, online Make sure that your school has your current contact survey for community members to provide input on the qualities information (e-mail address and home, work, and cell they would like to see in a new superintendent. Please visit the MCPS phone numbers), so that you can be reached in an website to access and complete the superintendent profile survey by emergency. February 4: http://montgomeryschoolsmd.org/boe/superintendent- NOTE: MCPS will no longer post closing messages on search/forums.aspx . This survey will help the search firm consultants develop a thorough understanding of the Montgomery County Public School’s Out ( www.schoolsout.com ) Schools in order to recruit the strongest and most qualified Reach the Montgomery County Public Schools superintendent candidates for the Board to consider. Department of Public Information & Web Services/Office The Board has established a timeline for the search that will conclude of Communications at 301-279-3853 in May 2011 with the announcement of a new superintendent. The new leader will begin on July 1, 2011.

Newsletter 9

Save the Date for Swing Night X Writer’s Center Workshops, Winter/Spring 2011 The Writer’s Center offers workshops for high school Friday Mar 25, 2011 students. For more information please call 301-654-8664 or 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM email [email protected]. For a complete listing of Blake Cafeteria workshops, including workshops for younger children, please visit www.writer.org. Location: The Writer’s Center, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda Some courses of interest: Teen Creative Writing 6 Saturdays, 1:00-3:30 p.m. February 5 – March 19 (No The Eubie Blake Jazz Ensemble will be joined by meeting February 19) special guests for this wonderful evening of dinner, Tuition: $215 (13% Discount for Writer’s Center members) music, and dancing for the 10th annual swing night. This workshop, for writers who want to improve their Tickets are $25 per person and go on sale February poetry, fiction, or nonfiction, consists of fun and engaging 15th. Thank you for supporting our program. interactive exercises. Participants will discuss writing basics and will work individually with the instructor and in workshop readings to improve their approach to writing. Explore the Egyptian Kingdom - Spring Break 2011 Participants will have the opportunity to read their work to the class during our last workshop. This workshop works for passionate young writers and for students looking for inspiration and technique to get their creative writing juices Spend spring break 2011 exploring the pyramids, the flowing. sphinx, and cruising the Nile. Learn more about the

tour by going to http://www.eftours.com/Student- How to Write a Better College Application Essay Travel/MyTeachersTours/teachers- March 26, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ur.aspx?salestour=474598 Tuition: $50 ($13% Discount for Writer’s Center members) For more information, e-mail The application essay is one of the most important factors in [email protected] , getting accepted to the college of your choice. High school [email protected] , or students and adults applying for college will learn tips on [email protected] what admission committees look for and how to personalize an essay so it stands out among the rest. (This workshop is offered again on Saturday, June 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)

Paris and Cote d’Azur ( French Riviera) SSL: Develops Workplace Skills April 15, 2011 – April 22, 2011

• Participate in school-sponsored clubs and (Spring break) organizations that promote service. • Consider getting involved in service on http://www.explorica.com/sign-up.aspx President’s Day February 21 and the “Early Release” day on March 4. tour Center ID: kompare-7006 • Demonstrate a good work ethic when addressing real need in the community. See Ms. Kompare (A210) or Ms. Shepherd (B223) or • Remember: SSL is a graduation requirement. Ms. Knott (C237) for more information. SSL along with all other requirements must be [email protected] met for a high school diploma to be awarded. [email protected] • Find meaningful, high quality service-learning [email protected] opportunities by searching www.mcpsssl.org.

Newsletter 10

February’s Sports Schedule

Feb. 1 (Tues.) Basketball – Boys Blake at Northwood V 7 pm/JV at BK 5:15 pm Basketball – Girls Blake at Northwood V 5:15 pm/JV at BK 3:30 pm Feb. 2 (Wed) Wrestling Blake at Kennedy V 6 pm/JV 7 pm Feb. 4 (Fri.) Basketball – Boys Kennedy at Blake V 7 pm/JV at KE 5:15 pm Basketball – Girls Kennedy at Blake V 5:15 pm/JV at KE 3:30 pm Feb. 5 (Sat.) Swimming and Diving Watkins Mill and Blake at Germantown Indoor Swim Center 9:15 am Wrestling Poolesville at Blake V 1 pm/JV 2 pm Feb. 8 (Tue.) Basketball – Boys Quince Orchard at Blake V 7 pm/JV 5:15 pm Basketball – Girls Blake at Quince Orchard V 7 pm/JV 5:15 pm Feb. 10 Thurs.) Basketball – Girls Paint Branch at Blake V 7 pm/JV 5:15 pm Feb. 11 (Fri.) Basketball – Boys Blake at Paint Branch V 7 pm/JV 5:15 pm Feb. 12 (Sat.) Swimming and Diving Division III Diving Championship at Montgomery Aquatic Center 7:30 am - 9:30 am Division III Swimming Championship at Montgomery Aquatic Center 9: 30 am - 1:30 pm Feb. 15 (Tue.) Basketball – Boys Blake at Einstein V 7 pm/JV at BK 5:15 pm Basketball – Girls Blake at Einstein V 5:15 pm/JV at BK 3:30 pm Feb. 17 (Thurs.) Swimming and Diving MCPS 500 Yard Championship at Martin Luther King Swim Center 3 pm Feb. 18 (Fri.) Basketball – Boys Wootton at Blake V 7 pm Basketball – Girls Blake at Wootton V 7 pm Swimming and Diving (Montgomery County)MCPS Diving Championship at Martin Luther King Swim Center 2:30 pm Feb. 19 (Sat.) Swimming and Diving MCPS Swimming Championship at Martin Luther King Swim Center 8 am Feb. 23 (Wed.) Swimming and Diving Metro. Swimming and Diving Championship (2/23 thru 2/26) at Germantown Indoor Swim Center TBA

Newsletter 11

Please take the time to fill out this membership form and demonstrate your commitment to your child's education .

BLAKE PTSA MEMBERSHIP FORM 2010-2011

Student’s Name ______Grade Full Name (please print) ____

(Include name of both parents/adults for family membership) Place of Work ______My employer matches charitable contributions ______

E-mail address#1: ______E-mail address #2: ______

Phone# 1 ______(H/W/C) Phone #2 ______(H/W/C) Street Address City, State, Zip

_____ Check here if you do not wish to receive school-related PTSA updates and announcements via e-mail. _____ Check here if you wish to receive the PTSA newsletter, the Blake Blue Note, electronically only; NOT hard copy ( USPS ) _____ Check here if you wish to receive the Blake Blue Note in HARD COPY; mailed home.

******************************************************************************************************** BLAKE DIRECT APPEAL CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION • Direct Appeal is the main source of funds for the Blake HS PTSA operating budget. • Consider making a $75 contribution in addition to membership, but any amount will be appreciated. • 100% of your donation is fully tax deductible and directly benefits Blake students. • You can donate as an individual, family or as a business.

___ I prefer that my family NOT be included in the list of contributors in the newsletter. ___ I would consider a second contribution after January 1. Please contact me again.

Yes, I want to join and have selected the following membership(s): PTSA Single Membership (1 adult = $20.00) $______(Name)

PTSA Family Membership (2 adults = $25.00) $______(Both Names) Student Membership ($5.00) $______(Name) Blake Staff Membership ($5.00) $______(Name) Alumni Membership ($10.00) $______(Name)

Direct Appeal Contribution

Bengal Supporter - Up to $99 Friends of Eubie - $100 - $249 Eubie Gold Level - $250 - $499 Red Carpet Level - $500 or more

Direct Appeal Campaign Contribution $______

MEMBERSHIP + DIRECT APPEAL CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION TOTAL = $ ______

PAYMENT METHOD (check one): ______Cash Check (made payable to Blake HS PTSA)

Signature ______Date ______Mail to: Blake HS PTSA, 300 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, MD 20905 THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Newsletter 12

Help Support a Tradition of Excellence The Blake Stage Company Proudly Presents

Contributions Are Welcome!

Benefactors Contributing $40 - $99 Get listed in our Program! Angels Contributing $100 - $499 Get listed in our Program! Corporate Sponsors Contributing $500 or More Get listed in our Program!

Name(s) to be noted in program______Address ______Phone Number & E-Mail ______Amount of Contribution ______Stage Company Contact ______

The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. in Blake’s auditorium on: Friday, April 1 st , Saturday, April 2 nd , Thursday, April 7 th , Friday, April 8 th & Saturday, April 9 th .

For questions, contact: Michael D’Anna, Director Blake High School, 300 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, MD 20905 301-879-1300 or Michel_D_D’[email protected] The James H. Blake High School Stage Company 300 Norwood Road Silver Spring, MD 20905 Michael D’Anna, Director 301-879-1300 Michel_D_D’[email protected]

Newsletter 13

RECEIPT FOR ADVERTISING/FINANCIAL SUPPORT For Hairspray

Advertiser/Contributor:______

Address: ______

Phone Number: ______E-Mail: ______

Contact Person for Business: ______

Advertisement Selection Sponsorship Selection  Full Page Cover/Back Page ($120)  Corporate Sponsor ($500 and up)  Full Page Ad ($100)  Angel ($99 to $499)  Half Page Ad ($60)  Benefactor ($40 to $99)  Quarter Page Ad ($40)

Method of Payment Payment Received:  Yes  No Form of Payment:  Cash  Check  Bill Later

Blake High School Representative ______Date: ______

Note: Please make all checks payable to Blake High School Show Dates are Friday, April 1 st , Saturday, April 2 nd , Thursday, April 7 th , Friday, April 8 th , & Saturday, April 9 th .

Newsletter 14

Newsletter 15

Your Blake Blue No te Blake PTSA Web Site http://www.blakeptsa.org/ Editor: Paul Girolami

Format: Michele Setton Visit our web site to stay informed about PTSA and other E-mail contact: [email protected] school activities. Our web site offers a Google calendar, PTSA meeting minutes, copies of the BBN, links to important The Blake Blue Note is published 6 times during the PTSA documents and forms, as well as links to additional school year (September, October, December, resources.

February, April, and June. It is prepared for mailing by

Ms. Beth Sheperd’s and Ms. Ann Macrae’s classes. Eubiemail/Blake PTSA Yahoo! Group

Your PTSA maintains the Blake High School PTSA Yahoo! A paper copy of the BBN is sent to each Blake family after it is printed, prepared and mailed. The electronic group to provide you with up-to-date school announcements version is available more immediately via Eubiemail and other information on school-related topics. Messages and on the Blake PTSA web site are sent out from the Yahoo group to the Inboxes of http://www.blakeptsa.org/blake-blue-note/ . subscribers as Eubiemail. You must subscribe to receive these emails and to access the Yahoo group site. Publication deadlines: April May Due March 18 To subscribe , send a message with your name and your June Due May 20 student’s name and grade to: [email protected] . Please send your articles to Please put “Subscribe to Eubiemail” in the subject line, to [email protected] . help us weed out spam. For additional ways to access Eubiemail via a Yahoo email account, see Instructions at: http://www.blakeptsa.org/eubiemailblake-ptsa-yahoo- group/ .

James Hubert Blake High School NON-PROFIT ORG.

300 Norwood Road US POSTAGE PAID

Silver Spring, MD 20905 SPENCERVILLE, MD 20868

PERMIT NO. 502

ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED

MAILING LABEL HERE PTSA DUES HELP PAY FOR THIS NEWSLETTER

Newsletter 16